Researchers in Philadelphia have found a link between metabolic syndrome and the potential to develop serious liver disease in obese adolescent boys.
The study, appearing in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, suggests a strong association between metabolic syndrome and elevated levels of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase, which is a known marker of nonalcoholic liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
Previous research has linked weight problems to both metabolic syndrome and NAFLD, but scientists involved in this study say they also found that non-Hispanic males with metabolic syndrome were at risk for liver disease whether or not they were obese.
Dr. Rose Graham, from the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, said the results may have implications for treatment. Currently, the only known treatment for NAFLD is weight loss. “If some adolescents with metabolic syndrome may be susceptible to this liver disease regardless of whether or not they are obese, there may be other treatments yet to be discovered,” she said.
Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. They include high blood pressure, large waist circumference, insulin resistance and abnormal levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and nutrition are key to avoiding metabolic syndrome.
Some health practitioners have suggested the alkaline diet for those trying to shed extra pounds. It is based on citrus fruits, vegetables, tubers, nuts and legumes.